Adjustable Conveyor Storage Section for Variable Capacity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage devices for conveyor systems face challenges in accurately controlling and quickly adjusting storage capacity, particularly during product changes or operational disruptions, leading to delays and inefficiencies due to limitations in handling different pack widths and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an arrangement of two or more storage sections with a storage strand in a first level and a slack strand in a second level, connected by deflection sections forming a U-shaped course, allowing for precise adjustment of storage volume through an endless traction means, enabling flexible and space-efficient storage and retrieval of articles or goods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional storage devices are used, then storage function is provided, but storage capacity adjustment is slow and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device employs a movable deflection device that can be dynamically repositioned along the conveyor belt to adjust the storage capacity. This dynamic element allows the storage section to be quickly resized by moving the deflection device between different positions, enabling both precise control and rapid response to changing storage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of the storage capacity by adjusting the position of the deflection device. By varying the location where the conveyor belt is deflected, the effective storage length is directly modified, providing a simple yet effective method for precise and rapid capacity adjustment without complex mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vertical in-line buffer systems are used, then storage is provided, but adaptability to different pack widths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor belt-based storage section is designed to universally accommodate different pack widths without requiring structural conversions. The flexible belt and adjustable deflection device can adapt to various container sizes and configurations, making the same storage device versatile for handling multiple product types and dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of a flexible conveyor belt as the storage medium allows the system to adapt to different pack widths. The belt can conform to various container shapes and sizes, providing a flexible solution that eliminates the need for rigid, conversion-prone structures while maintaining storage functionality across different product specifications.
3Area of stationary object
If horizontal buffer tables are used, then storage is provided, but space utilization is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from traditional horizontal buffer tables to a conveyor belt system that utilizes vertical space and creates a looped path. By deflecting the belt to create a U-shaped storage section, the system efficiently uses the available three-dimensional space, allowing containers to be stored in a compact loop configuration that maximizes space utilization while maintaining continuous conveying flow.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage section (10) for temporarily storing articles (12), packaged goods, or unit loads of a conveying device for the continuous or discontinuous conveying of articles (12), packaged goods, or unit loads is disclosed. The storage section (10) has at least one storage section (14) located in a first level (18) and at least one empty section (16) connected thereto, located in a second level (20). The storage section (14) has two flexible, parallel, counter-rotating support and conveying sections (22) for articles (12), packaged goods, or unit loads to be temporarily stored, which are connected by a first deflection section (24) that describes a circular arc of approximately 180 degrees. The empty section (16) runs in a second level (20) which is located below the first level (18) of the storage section (14).The continuously circulating support and conveying sections (22) are connected in the area of the empty run (16) by a second deflection section (54) that describes a circular arc of approximately 180 degrees. The first deflection section (24) of the storage run (14) is assigned to and coupled with an upper run (62) of an endless traction element (58) that is guided in the area of the first level (18) and adjustable between at least two second deflection elements (52, 56). The lower run (64) of the traction element is guided in the area of the second level (20) and is coupled there to the second deflection section (54) of the empty run (16).The first deflection section (24) and the second deflection section (54) can be changed in opposite directions by movements of the driven endless traction element (58), so that a storage volume of the storage section (14) can be variably adjusted by changes in the position of the first deflection section (24) and opposite changes in the position of the second deflection section (54) of the empty section (16).